Hollow Core Baseball Training Ball with Synthetic Leather
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard baseballs and softballs are costly due to leather materials, and miniature versions for training or confined spaces lack the authentic feel and performance of traditional balls.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight baseball-like training ball with a hollow polyethylene plastic core covered by figure-8 shaped synthetic leather strips, providing a durable, affordable, and authentic feel while allowing for adjustable weight and size to simulate standard baseballs or softballs, with a hollow core design and adhesive for reduced weight and increased maneuverability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If leather covers are used on baseballs, then grip and performance are improved, but cost increases and availability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses synthetic leather covers that visually and tactilely replicate the appearance and feel of genuine leather, providing similar grip and performance characteristics without the high cost and scarcity of real leather. The synthetic material is designed to mimic the texture and properties of traditional leather covers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the material composition parameter by replacing genuine leather with synthetic leather, changing the material properties while maintaining the functional requirements for grip and durability. This parameter change enables cost reduction while preserving performance.
2Reliability
If standard baseballs are used for training, then authentic feel is maintained, but cost and weight make them unsuitable for confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the weight parameter by using a hollow plastic core instead of a solid rubber-cork core, reducing the ball's weight while maintaining its size and authentic feel. This makes the ball more manageable for training in confined spaces while preserving the traditional baseball experience.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a composite structure combining hollow plastic core with synthetic leather cover, creating a ball that achieves both weight reduction and maintained authenticity. The composite design allows the ball to feel like a traditional baseball while being significantly lighter.
3Weight of moving object
If hollow core design is used, then weight is reduced and maneuverability is improved, but structural strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses composite construction with a hollow plastic core and synthetic leather cover to maintain structural integrity despite the hollow interior. The plastic material and stitching construction provide sufficient strength for training purposes while achieving weight reduction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a hollow plastic shell structure that provides adequate structural strength while minimizing weight. The plastic material and stitching create a durable enclosure that can withstand training conditions despite the hollow core design.
Data Source
AI summary
A lightweight spherical baseball like training ball has a hollow polyethylene plastic core adhered to a stitched white colored synthetic leather cover with a thin layer of adhesive. The lightweight ball has raised seams and measures in circumference similar to the ball circumference size mandated by Major League Baseball or softball rules whereby the ball is suitable for baseball and softball training and playing variations of the game of baseball or softball in confined areas.